Which of these adaptations would be important for organisms on a high-tide zone?

Organisms residing in the high-tide zone experience unique environmental conditions, especially frequent and prolonged exposure to air as well as the effects of changing tides. The correct answer emphasizes the importance of the ability to tolerate prolonged exposure to air.

During low tide, many marine organisms, such as certain types of mollusks, seaweeds, and barnacles, can be left exposed to the air for extended periods. Those that can withstand these conditions are more likely to survive until the next high tide, when they are submerged once again. This adaptation reduces the risk of desiccation (drying out) and allows these organisms to thrive in an environment that would otherwise be inhospitable.

In contrast, while the ability to withstand prolonged submersion or to anchor to rocks are beneficial traits, they are not the most critical adaptations for organisms specifically in the high-tide zone, as they are adapted to experience both submersion and exposure. The ability to swim rapidly is less relevant since organisms in the high-tide zone are typically adapted to a benthic lifestyle, meaning they are primarily attached to surfaces rather than being free-swimming. Therefore, the survival and success of these organisms heavily rely on their capacity to handle air exposure effectively.